Let’s go back to school

Going back to school can be an anxious time for students. They’re faced with new teachers, new schedules and maybe even new friends.

Buckner Children and Family Services across Texas helped ease the transition back to class for vulnerable children and families with new backpacks, school supplies and even carnivals, haircuts, shoes and uniforms in some locations. Bucker shipped more than 6,000 backpacks full of school supplies throughout the state.

Buckner held back-to-school events in Amarillo, Beaumont, Conroe, Dallas, Houston, Longview, Lubbock, Lufkin, Midland and Peñitas. Children celebrated the start of the new academic year playing games, running through bounce houses and eating sweet treats.

In Midland, Buckner foster families and families served by Buckner Family Pathways came together at Crestview Baptist Church for lunch, games and school supplies.

“We feel like it’s really important to celebrate a new school year and for all of our families to start fresh with all the supplies they need, including our moms,” said Myndi Easter, Buckner gift officer in Midland.

The back-to-school events are made possible by the generosity of Buckner supporters and volunteers. Crestview Baptist Church invests in those Buckner serves throughout the year, helping transform lives and families.

“This is the third year Crestview Baptist Church has had something like this with us along with all that they do with us throughout the year,” Easter said. “They have taken Buckner under their wing and work with us throughout the year. We really appreciate them and all they do.”

The Junior League School Supply Train in Longview brings together the community to benefit thousands of vulnerable children and families, including those served through the Buckner Family Hope Center. Children receive backpacks, school supplies, haircuts and dental and vision screenings.

The event saves families who already are challenged financially hundreds if not thousands of dollars on school supplies, allowing them to use their resources to meet other needs while still providing children all they need for school

"School Supply Train alleviates financial pressure on families who are already struggling to make ends meet,” said Susan Williams, director of the Hope Center in Longview. “In addition to making sure their children have the needed supplies, it is also significant for children to see that their parents value their education. “We’re so grateful to Junior League of Longview for taking the initiative 24 years ago to meet this need for East Texas families”"

Buckner leaders understand education is critical to the future of the children the ministry serves. Education unlocks opportunities for them and empowers them to break any generational cycles of poverty.

“Many of our families come from a past that includes generational poverty,” Easter said. “Many of our children in foster care come from families where education wasn’t emphasized. These back-to-school events help children get energized and excited about school and learning. That excitement can help change their lives.”